Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II N62RK accident near Pocahontas, Illinois

Probable cause

A reported loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while spraying corn about 15 ft above ground level and at an airspeed of about 60 miles per hour, the engine “started to spit and sputter” and then lost total power. He attempted to reduce the airspeed and initiated a flare before colliding with 10 ft tall corn stalks. During the impact with the corn stalks the helicopter’s landing gear skids and tail boom separated and the helicopter bounced off the ground. The helicopter became airborne, traveled about 30 ft, rolled over, and came to rest onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and tail boom. The pilot reported the helicopter fuel tanks contained about 10 gallons of fuel and an odor of fuel was noted at the accident site.

Postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the reported loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA306 for the full record.